The Last Lecture
If you were going to die, and had one last lecture, what would you say to your students?
This question is the premise of an academic tradition called the “Last Lecture,” which allows professors to share their wisdom with their students. But for the late Professor Randy Pausch, it wasn’t a hypothetical scenario. Diagnosed with cancer, he only had months to live when he gave his Last Lecture this past September. It was the lecture of a lifetime. Titled “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams,” it encouraged people to dream big, to be strong in the face of adversity, to never lose the wonder and to help others achieve their own dreams. Wise, witty and incredibly moving, it became a global phenomenon: viewed online by millions, featured on numerous TV programs and linked to by legions of Websites.
In this volume, Pausch expanded on his lecture, elaborating on his message and sharing how he learned each of the lessons outlined in his talk. As he said, “It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. It’s about how to lead your life. If you live your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you.”
This is one of the most inspiring books we’ve read in a long while.
Hardcover Book : 224 pages
Publisher: Hyperion Bks/Imp of Buena Vista Books ( April 09, 2008 )
Item #: 12-561602
ISBN: 9781401323257
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.25 inches
Product Weight: 9.0 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
The Lecture that Counts 
May 06, 2008
This is the only "lecture" that really matters. So many people think that if they had it to do over, they'd change everything. Randy Pausch distills his life experiences into life lessons, all the while showing us that he really wouldn't change anything. He claims that his lecture was a "head fake", because he really intended it for his kids, but all of us who read it remain convinced that it was meant for everyone, everywhere. It's a wake up call to all of us, especially those of us in middle age, to realize what's really important in life.
Reviewer: R M
Graduation Gift
May 06, 2008
This is an excellent book for any age. Randy Pausch talks about his dreams and hitting brick walls. The stronger person will break through these walls. I am a firm believer in many of this teachings through out this book. I am giving this to my granddaughter who will be graduating from high school in a few weeks - heading toward finding her way through the academic world of college and life. Change is difficult and Randy relates this in his writings.
I felt this book will give her some insight into life - I highly recommend this book.
Reviewer: Claire C
uplifting and heart rendering
April 27, 2008
I read this book, written by a man who is dying with 3 young children and a loving wife. He gives you things to think about and, perhaps, a decision to change direction in your own life where you might otherwise not have the strength or fortitude to do so. Dr. Pausch leaves you with a feeling of sadness that his life is soon to end and that there is no hope for him to go into remission. His desire is to leave behind something for his kids to remember their Dad with. I cried and laughed and thought.
Reviewer: Joan K
Should be called the BEST Lecture...
April 21, 2008
this is truly inspirational...makes you really think without being preachy or overbearing. thanks, Prof. Pausch for a wonderful legacy.
Reviewer: Alan J
This is THE BOOK
April 17, 2008
If you were to only read one book, or buy one book, in your life, than this should be that book.
Reviewer: Sandra D
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